Community News

ACF brings nonprofits together

At the meeting, from left, Dale Ash, Audrey Moon, Carolyn Marston, Shannon Ammons

By SHERRY DIGMON
News Staff Writer

Nonprofit organizations fill a number of needs in the Atmore area and throughout the county. If there is a need, chances are there’s a nonprofit with people trying to fill a void, to aid, to come alongside.
However, funding is often a challenge for these organizations. And while nonprofits depend on many sources to operate, they may not be aware of every asset available.
Sometimes – without knowing it – nonprofits overlap in an area, and vying for the same funds can become a problem.
To start a dialogue and to address the needs of these organizations, the Atmore Community Foundation reached out to area nonprofits by hosting a luncheon Thursday, Nov. 15. ACF’s goal is to become a hub for the organizations, aiding them in securing funds and working together.
Among the nonprofits represented were Pride of Atmore, Women of Distinction, Philadelphia House, DHR, Escambia County Habitat for Humanity, Atmore Public Library, We Are Family Home Care, Atmore Area Christian Care Ministry, Atmore Historical Society, United Fund, and the Atmore Chamber of Commerce.
The meeting was facilitated by Shannon Ammons, Director of Alabama Association for Nonprofits. Initial discussion centered around the strengths and challenges of the community.
Ammons talked about competition for funding – are you building a healthy, viable organization for someone to invest in? Have clarity about your organization so people know how to help.
She urged nonprofits to work together on social capital – the networks of relationships among people who live and work in a particular society, enabling that society to function effectively. What’s better in Atmore and Escambia County because you did it?
Atmore Community Foundation is an affiliate of The Community Foundation of South Alabama. ACF members present were Chairwoman Audrey Moon, Dale Ash, Foster Kizer and Sherry Digmon. Carolyn Marston with The Community Foundation of South Alabama also attended.